Produce Report: 12 February, 2018

Despite the consistently hot temperatures across the state, it’s a time of transition for some of our
fresh produce.

This week we’ve begun farewelling a few summer favourites this week, including blueberries,
Menindee grapes, and Australian-grown apricots. Avocados are at a cross-point in the season, with
Shephard avos starting to come through at a cheaper price than Hass. The pineapple season in
Bundaberg is also winding down, so supplies will be lower until the Sunshine Coast crop starts.

But as one season ends, another begins and we are excited to see the start of the Queensland
apple crop arriving — look out for locally grown Gala and Fuji apples. Galas are a great all-rounder,
as they lend themselves to snacking as well as baking, smoothies, and juices.

Also making an entrance are well-priced, excellent quality Williams pears (remember they’ll
probably need to ripen out of the fridge for a few days). Try adding sliced Williams to a simple
salad of rocket, walnuts and parmesan cheese. Nectarines and large peaches are still at their peak,
while figs continue to enjoy a bumper season and offer great value. You might have noticed
watermelon prices firming, which is a result of heavy rainfall in some parts of Queensland last
week.

The best buys in vegies this week are corn, cucumber, salad leaves, sweet potatoes, and carrots,
while we’re also seeing a good supply of Bundaberg-grown zucchini. Hot weather down south
continues to affect broccoli, while snow peas, basil, and mushrooms are also in low supply.
Cauliflower is difficult to find at the moment, so expect to pay top dollar. With storms near
Stanthorpe affecting Roma tomatoes, our supplies are variable; however, gourmet tomatoes are
resilient to the rain and are still great quality.

This week’s top picks are plums. With well-priced and attractive-looking Mariposa, Black Amber
and Queen Garnett plums in abundance, buy them in bulk and use as lunchbox snacks and in
baking. Or for a plum jam with a difference, add spices such as cinnamon or star anise.